FUTURE

WORK KNOWLEDGE

THE

OF

information work is not

knowledge work

When

information work is confused with

knowledge work images of the future

get distorted.

information: facts data

(humans = optional)

knowledge: insight

meaning (humans = essential)

knowledge work is based upon human

relationships

Relationships enable us to increase

the value of our knowledge,

create meaning + build competitive insight.

This allows us to see things together

that others don’t.

such as… patterns opportunities

warning signs

information work tends to be transactional,

generic, faceless + placeless.

knowledge work is about building strong brands

based on a sense of community +

identity.

information work

builds strong brands?

not so much

knowledge work is about building

capacity to innovate based on

shared learning.

information work

builds capacity to innovate?

not so much

So when we see the future of work

described as a faceless, placeless…

interchangeable marvel of mechanical

efficiency…

…and cite Hollywood film crews

as a future model for teams although they have no

shared learning curve or commitment to

ongoing relationships…

information work or

knowledge work

…let’s ask if we’re really talking about

Sharon VanderKaay Farrow Partnership Architects

www.farrowpartnership.com

knowledge work